{4.5/5} “Why do you think everyone here stares at you? You’re not just an outsider, Worf — you’re a legend. We all know your story — even here. You are the one who came back from the abyss, who regained his honor.”

Star Trek: Prey — Hell’s Heart by John Jackson Miller, published in 2016

Kruge was killed by Kirk on Genesis, but he left behind a large family. One hundred years later Captain Picard is asked to ferry some Klingons of the house of Kruge to a celebration of the Battle of Gamaral. The clone of Kahless is also going to be present — but he’s not happy when he finds out what really happened at the battle. And someone with 12 cloaked ships is also going to be there, for nefarious purposes.

This is the 1st book in a trilogy. It cleverly has part of the story in Kirk and Spock’s time, and another part of the story in Picard and Riker’s time.

It’s the only original novel I know of that takes up the story of Kruge — it’s his actions that initiate events. If you’re a fan of the Klingons, this is the story for you.

It’s about discommendation, deception, and a long con. The main part of the story features Picard, Worf, Kahless, and a protégé of Kruge’s named Korgh. Riker, La Forge, and Martok are also in on the action.